A highlight of our Oregon trip was a visit to Bend’s Deschutes Brewery. The brewery offers free 1/2 hour tours at 1, 2, 3, and 4 pm daily. It’s best to arrive early in the busy summer, as the group is limited to about 20 per session.

I’m no stranger to brewery tours, but Deschutes has a special connection to Vancouver: as of this writing, we’re the only Canadian city where Deschutes is available!

[Vancouver’s on the map. Who’s next?]

[Wholesome ingredients: water, whole hops, malt, yeast]

Deschutes regularly launches new releases and keeps a seasonal selection on tap at both the brewery and its pubs (we’ve been to both Portland and Bend locations). Going through the tour, I was wowed by the collection of previous Jubelale labels proudly displayed on the walls. One of the staff explained to us that each year, a call for local artist submissions takes place.

The artist is chosen not by having created a label, but by their artistic style. At that point, the label artwork is created to launch the holiday seasonal. I walked past several Jubelale framed pieces on the brewery walls and discovered a unique and colourful variety of masterpieces.

[This painting was created using wax media]

What were my favourite brews? Anything that’s an IPA or Red/Amber Ale will get my attention. Hop in the Dark (with its subtle coffee flavour) is a tasteful concoction and available until September.

Also try the Green Lakes Organic Ale, light and fresh for summer BBQ. Beer tasting is free and samples are available before and after each tour. Just remember who’s driving afterwards.